We are learning many things through the COVID experience and as we look ahead to recovery and renewal. One thing I'm sure of is that the role of place in our communities, local economies and national recovery has never been more vital, or more visible.

Place is intrinsic to the big challenges we face – COVID recovery, economic renewal and climate change – and must be central to how we meet them. That local authorities are at the forefront of these is both exciting and overwhelming after a year of working relentlessly to deliver services, and ensure our places and communities are safe.